Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has declared the decades-long economic partnership between Canada and the United States officially “over” following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose steep new tariffs on Canadian auto imports. In a fiery press conference in Ottawa, Carney vowed that Canada would not back down, signaling a dramatic shift in North American trade relations.
The announcement comes after Trump revealed a permanent 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts, a move Carney called an aggressive attack on Canada’s economy. The Prime Minister framed the decision as a breaking point, marking the end of the historic 1965 Canada-U.S. Automotive Products Agreement, which he described as “the most important trade deal of his lifetime.”
Carney made it clear that Canada would retaliate with its own tariffs designed to maximize economic pressure on the U.S. while minimizing domestic fallout. “We will fight these tariffs with retaliatory trade actions that will have maximum impact in the United States and minimum impact here in Canada,” he said. His tone was defiant, rejecting any notion that Canada would allow itself to be weakened for America’s benefit.
“The U.S. president is trying to restructure his economy, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept policies that harm Canadian workers,” Carney stated. “I respect his goal to support American jobs, but I fundamentally disagree with his approach. We will not be worn down, broken, or owned by the United States—that will never happen.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged that difficult times lie ahead, warning Canadians to prepare for economic turbulence. “We can no longer trust the U.S. as we once did,” he admitted. “But we are ready for this fight. We must pull together in the tough days ahead.”
Carney’s remarks reflect a broader strategy to reduce Canada’s reliance on U.S. trade, urging businesses and policymakers to “fundamentally reimagine” the nation’s economic future. His stance suggests a long-term shift toward diversification, potentially seeking stronger alliances with Europe, Asia, and other global partners.
The escalating trade war has already strained diplomatic ties, with Carney refusing to lift retaliatory tariffs unless the U.S. demonstrates “the respect Canada deserves.” His message was clear: the old rules of cooperation no longer apply, and Canada is prepared to stand alone if necessary.
As tensions continue to rise, one thing is certain—the once unshakable economic bond between the two neighbors has reached a historic turning point.
